Entrepreneurship meets digital transformation at this week’s Thursday Gathering. Experience live pitches from the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 Japan Kyushu finalists and discover how Kumamoto startups are driving AI and DX to the global stage.
Date and Time: Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025, 16:00 to 20:00
Location: ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. 6F SKYLOBBY
Admission: Free (registration required)
Registration & details are here
Event Highlights (In-person only)
15:55 – 20:00
Networking
Each Thursday Gathering includes dedicated networking time, with up to three complimentary drinks (beer or soft drinks). Meet speakers, entrepreneurs, and fellow attendees in a relaxed environment designed to spark conversation and collaboration.
More info: In English and Japanese
16:00 – 16:50
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 Japan – Kyushu Regional Finals
Hear live pitches from the “Challenging Spirit” category finalists as they compete to represent Kyushu at the national finals in Tokyo this December. A rare opportunity to see leading entrepreneurs from the region present their visions on stage.
Finalists:
• Yuta Ibaraki, CEO, Anddotnet Inc.
• Kaoru Hattori, CEO, HATSUTORI Inc.
• Tetsuo Moriyama, President & CEO, Carbon Xtract Inc.
More info: In Japanese
17:00 – 17:15
How to Enjoy Thursday Gathering
An interactive orientation session introducing the purpose and mission of Thursday Gathering, how the community is built, and ways to get the most value from attending. Ideal for first-time participants.
More info: In English & Japanese
17:30 – 17:50
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 Japan – Kyushu Regional Finals (Part 2)
The finalist presentations continue, followed by the announcement of the Kyushu representative advancing to the national competition in Tokyo.
Finalists and Judges: Same as above.
More info: In Japanese
18:30 – 19:20
Kumamoto x DX x AI – Part 1: Pitch Event
Following Kumamoto’s recent designation as a “NEXT Global Startup Hub City,” four startups present pitches on the theme of AI and digital transformation. This session highlights bold ideas and collaborations between Kumamoto and Fukuoka-based innovators.
More info: In Japanese
19:30 – 20:20
Kumamoto x DX x AI – Part 2: Talk Session
A discussion session with entrepreneurs and ecosystem leaders exploring how Kumamoto startups can leverage AI and DX to scale globally. Gain fresh insights into the future of innovation emerging from Kyushu.
More info: In Japanese
Organized by: Venture Café Fukuoka
Languages: Japanese and/or English (varies by session)
All sessions are in-person only. Pre-registration required via the event website.